The hunting season is about to arrive and it is felt in the businesses of the Saguenay – Lac-Saint-Jean region. Hunters are finalizing preparations before heading into the forest, but the season may be different from last, among other things, due to climate change.
“I can’t wait, it’s really my passion. It is a pleasure to be in the forest, relax, see other animals in nature,” admitted one hunter.
You can feel it in the stores. In Chasse et Pêche, in Chicoutimi, the fire has been burning since the beginning of August.
“It’s the frenzy, it’s the maximum excitement, one day before the opening in zone 28!” exclaimed the store’s owner, Éric Lapointe.
Best season
Last year hunting was more restricted since only the female could be hunted. This year is much more permissive. Females, males and babies are allowed.
“The hunting will probably be good, I think the temperature will be with us at the end of the week,” confesses Tommy Plante, director of the Chasse et Pêche boutique in Chicoutimi.
The climate, a challenge
The mercury is likely to rise, especially at the end of the week. This is yet another challenge for hunters who must increasingly adapt to global warming and who will have to demonstrate ingenuity to preserve their game.
“After a few hours of investigation at a temperature of 20 degrees, we were already beginning to be in danger. The big trend in recent years is to make large portable refrigerators,” says Lapointe.
That’s $4,000 well spent for one hunter, who bought a large cooler this year to make sure his meat stays fresh.
“This year we decided to go with equipment that will allow us to save the animal if we kill it. It is important, because today with climate change we have to adapt, that is why we decided to invest,” he said.
The animals will also be more discreet due to the heat. Hunters must renew their hunting technique and above all adapt their schedule. Morning and late-day hunts will be the most profitable according to the owner of Chasse et Pêche Chicoutimi.
According to him, the animals are likely to be present in greater numbers, possibly due to climate change.
“Was it the fire migration that caused the game to collapse? Possible. But mysteriously this year I think we are going to have a very good harvest year,” he added.
As for the lack of ammunition, which has caused headaches for many since the pandemic, there is no problem, said Tommy Plante: “Ammunitions have been in short supply for several years, but we have managed to help the world,” said Tommy Plante. he explained confidently.
Security First
Before departure, a safety reminder on handling firearms is required.
“In vehicles, it is completely prohibited, whether it is a recreational vehicle or any type of vehicle. You should always treat it as if it were loaded, checking whether there is ammunition inside or not. The safety must be on,” recalls Éric Lapointe.
As soon as the sun rises tomorrow (Saturday), numerous hunters will roam the forests of Saguenay – Lac-Saint-Jean, in search of prey.
